76ers interview Jordan on vacant coaching job

The 76ers interviewed Eddie Jordan yesterday in what was the first step of what one source said would be a long, thorough search for the team's next coach.

Jordan, 54, and Sixers general manager Ed Stefanski met yesterday morning at the Wachovia Center for the first official interview Stefanski has conducted since Tony DiLeo withdrew his name from consideration Monday to continue as Sixers coach.

The Sixers confirmed the meeting took place, but declined further comment. Jordan could not be reached for comment, either.

Jordan, whose name has been linked to the Sixers' opening since Stefanski fired Maurice Cheeks on Dec. 13, 2008, was the logical first interview for the Sixers. They worked together for four seasons with the New Jersey Nets when Jordan was an assistant coach and Stefanski was assistant general manager. The team reached two NBA Finals during that span.

Jordan has already interviewed with Sacramento, currently the only other NBA team with a coaching vacancy.

Kings GM Geoff Petrie is currently overseas scouting, putting Sacramento's coaching search on hold until he returns.

A source close to the Sixers' situation has said Stefanski would not feel pressured if another team offered Jordan a head coaching job. The team's search is likely to include candidates who are assistant coaches with currently active playoff teams.

The source said including such candidates extends the timing of the search.

Jordan previously coached the Kings during the 1996-97 and 1997-98 seasons. Most recently, Jordan coached the Washington Wizards from 2003-08. He was fired a little over six months ago after beginning the season 1-10.

Jordan's career head coaching record is 230-288.

Still no. Avery Johnson's agent, Tyler Glass, said his client has still not been contacted by the Sixers. Glass said if they were contacted they would "entertain" the discussion. Johnson is currently a studio analyst with ESPN, but was previously the head coach of the Dallas Mavericks.